The
Grand Lodge of Ancient Free & Accepted Masons
of North Carolina
Officers
Handbook
Dedicated to the memory of
Dudley H. Sheppard
1952-2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ii...............................................................................................................................Open Letter
iii....................................................................................................................................... Preface
1.............................................................................................................. Duties of a Freemason
2........................................................................................................................... Tyler’s Charge
3................................................................................................................... Tyler’s Code Duties
3............................................................................................................Junior Steward’s Charge
4....................................................................................................Junior Steward’s Code Duties
5........................................................................................................... Senior Steward’s Charge
6...................................................................................................Senior Steward’s Code Duties
6.............................................................................................................Junior Deacon’s Charge
7.................................................................................................... Junior Deacon’s Code Duties
8............................................................................................................Senior Deacon’s Charge
9....................................................................................................Senior Deacon’s Code Duties
9............................................................................................................ Junior Warden’s Charge
10 ................................................................................................... Junior Warden’s Code Duties
11............................................................................................................Senior Warden’s Charge
12................................................................................................... Senior Warden’s Code Duties
13........................................................................................................................ Master’s Charge
17................................................................................................................ Master’s Code Duties
21 ............................................................................................................ “A Past Master Speaks”
23....................................................................... Entered Apprentice Degree Team Assignments
23............................................................................ Entered Apprentice Degree Prop Placement
24........................................................................................................................... The Questions
24.......................................................................................Entered Apprentice Degree Scripture
24................................................................................................................... The Apron Lecture
25......................................................................... The Working Tools of an Entered Apprentice
26................................................................................... Fellow Craft Degree Team Assignments
26........................................................................................ Fellow Craft Degree Prop Placement
27...................................................................................................Fellow Craft Degree Scripture
27........................................................................................The Working Tools of a Fellow Craft
27................................................................................Master Mason Degree Team Assignments
29.................................................................................... Master Mason Degree Prop Placement
29............................................................................................... Master Mason Degree Scripture
30.................................................................................... The Working Tools of a Master Mason
31........................................................................................................................... Telephone List
36.....................................................................................................................Planning Calendar
42........................................................................................... Committee on Masonic Education
42........................................................................................................................... Masonic Links
Compiled & edited by: Dudley H. Sheppard
Gate City Lodge No. 694
Revision Date: May 27, 2005
Brethren,
This book has been made available to assist you in your duties as an
officer in your lodge.
It is not intended to be a book of laws to govern your actions, but a
guide that you may use over the years to assist you during your journey
through “the line.”
It will be helpful to future incoming officers, if during your journey,
you include ideas, suggestions, or any bit of information that will help
him during his term in office.
If all who fill these offices offer bits of information learned during
their terms, it will ultimately help all of the officers of your lodge
become more effective leaders and the lodge much stronger. Information
that could benefit an upcoming brother could be:
Contact persons for services or products
Where to locate items for lodge activities or projects
Procedures that make certain tasks easier
Mistakes you made and the results from those mistakes
Any bit of information that will benefit future officers in the
performance of their duties and a successful term in office.
Any addition to the information in this book will indicate your
successful term in office and your desire to see your upcoming brothers
enjoy a more successful term in office.
*
*
*
*
*
Use this book as it is intended. Don’t let it lay around to gather dust.
This book could be a very worthwhile tool to future officers.
ii
Preface
In the year of the Great Architect 2003, it was the vision of your
Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic Education to provide every officer
in the lodge a guide to their officer specific duties for the ensuing year.
This handbook has been created to assist you with those officer
specific duties. Some of the duties contained within these pages, with the
exception of “The Code Duties,” are of a generic nature.
As you progress through the line of officers in your lodge, your duties
and responsibilities will change. Ultimately, the further you advance, the
more you will have. As your duties and responsibilities increase, so does
the time it takes to perform them.
Different lodges may vary with officer specific duties. In travelling,
you may very well notice differences in officer’s duties from one lodge to
another.
These duties are intended to prepare you for the next step until you
have, with the blessing of your lodge brothers, been elected as master of
your lodge.
Your attention to detail and the performance of your duties will
reflect upon you as an officer, as well as your lodge. It is very important
that you take pride in the performance of your duties and perform them
to the best of your ability.
iii
Officers Handbook
Duties of a Freemason
By The Code
“The Code” refers to: The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina”
Reg. 52-3 The duties of a Freemason are as follows:
1. To obey the moral law,
2. To obey the laws and edicts of the Grand Lodge,
3. To be neither an atheist or skeptic,
4. To be a good man and true,
5. To live in peace and to practice charity,
6. To be a member of a regular Lodge,
7. To perform faithfully the duties as such member, or as an officer,
8. To pay his dues thereto promptly,
9. To obey the civil law,
10. To notify the secretary of his lodge immediately of any change in his mailing address,
11. To pay due respect and obedience to the various Grand Lodge officers and lodge officers
according to their respective rank and station,
12. To obey the by-laws of his lodge, and to attend its communications,
13. To observe those lessons and duties inculcated in the several lectures and charges of the three
Symbolic degrees of Freemasonry, and
14. To keep and perform the several obligations of those degrees. [77-16].
Officers Handbook
The Tyler’s Charge
Brother,
You have been appointed by the master of your lodge as tyler for the ensuing year. It is important that
you understand the duties and responsibilities of the office you now occupy.
Before being installed as tyler, you and all of the officers-elect made the following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the installing officer read the following charge to
you:
Brother, you have been appointed tyler of this lodge. It is your duty to guard the entrance to
the lodge, to report all brethren for admission to the junior deacon, to announce the name of
each visiting brother, together with the name, number and location of his lodge, to see that
each brother who enters is duly qualified and properly clothed, to keep a register of visiting
brethren, to perform such other duties as may be required by laws and customs of the craft
or by order of the master.
The marshal will now invest you with the implement of your office.
As the sword is placed in the hands of the tyler to enable him effectually to guard against
the approach of cowans and eavesdroppers, and suffer none to pass or repass, but such as
are duly qualified. So it should morally serve as a constant admonition to us; to set a guard
at the entrance of our thoughts, to place a watch at the door of our lips, to post a sentinel
at the avenues of our actions, thereby excluding every unqualified and unworthy thought,
word, and deed, and preserving consciences void of offense toward God and man. Your
early and punctual attendance will afford the best proof of your zeal for the institution.
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Duties of the Tyler
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-16 Tyler. The duties of the Tyler shall be as follows:
1. To guard the entrance of the lodge, to report all brethren to the junior deacon for admission, to
announce the name of each visiting brother and the name, number, and location of his lodge; to
Officers Handbook
see that each brother who enters is duly qualified, vouched for, and properly clothed; to be subject
to the direct orders of the master, and to keep a register of visiting brethren. [51-3; 62-1; 62-1.7].
2. To have charge, subject to the direct order of the master, of the furniture, jewels, and other
property of the lodge.
3. To have special care to insure cleanliness in the hall and anterooms.
4. To serve notices, summonses, citations, or other documents issued under authority of the master
and the lodge when ordered unless otherwise provided. [51-3; 51-3.2; 83-3].
Officers Handbook
The Junior Steward’s Charge
Brother,
You have been appointed by the master of your lodge as junior steward for the ensuing year.
It is important that you understand the duties and responsibilities of the office you now occupy.
By accepting this appointment, you have indicated your desire to begin your journey through the line
of officers, also known as “the chairs.” At this point, you have demonstrated the commitment needed to
see this journey to its ultimate end, the East.
It is important for you to understand this commitment and what it means. If you continue through the
chairs, you will need to participate, as much as possible, in most of the lodge activities. Your participation will
serve several purposes. It will demonstrate your desire to help make your lodge as successful as possible. Your
participation will serve as a learning experience. It will help prepare you for future offices. Above all, if you
do not participate, you will miss out on the friendship, camaraderie, and self-satisfaction of being a part of a
very successful activity.
In the not so distant future, you may be asked to handle a project or perform a task that will require
the help of your fellow officers or brothers. If you have demonstrated in the past that you are willing to be
there when they need you, you will find them there when you need them.
Think of your journey through the chairs not as a task or job, but as a learning experience that will serve you in the lodge
as well in life.
Before being installed as junior steward, you and the officers-elect made the following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform those duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the installing officer read to you and the senior
steward the following charge:
Brothers, you have been appointed or elected stewards of this lodge. It is your duty to
provide for the comfort of the brethren, to assist the deacons and other officers in performing
their duties, to perform such other duties as may be required by the usage and custom of
the craft, or as may be required by the ritual, by the master, or by the junior warden. Your
regular and early attendance will afford the best proof of your zeal and attachment to the
lodge.
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Officers Handbook
Duties of the Junior Steward
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-15 Stewards. The duties of the stewards shall be as follows:
1. They shall perform such duties agreeable to the usage of the craft and pertaining to their offices
as may be required by the ritual, the junior warden, or the master.
2. They shall provide for the comfort of the brethren.
Officers Handbook
The Senior Steward’s Charge
Brother,
You have been appointed by the master of your lodge as senior steward for the ensuing year.
It is important that you understand the duties and responsibilities of the office you now occupy.
Your acceptance of this appointment, further emphasizes your commitment to continue through the
chairs.
As junior steward during the previous year, you assisted the senior steward as he provided comfort and
refreshment for your brethren. It now becomes your responsibility to do so.
During the ensuing year, you will learn to plan. This is an integral part of your future associated with
the chairs in your lodge. Your performance during your tenure as senior steward will reflect on your future
performance and commitment to the lodge and your brethren.
Learn well the lessons of planning. They will serve you throughout the rest of your journey through the chairs.
Before being installed as Senior Steward, you and all of the officers-elect made the following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the installing officer read to you and the junior
steward the following charge:
Brother, you have been appointed or elected stewards of this lodge. It is your duty to provide
for the comfort of the brethren, to assist the deacons and other officers in performing their
duties, to perform such other duties as may be required by the usage and custom of the craft,
or as may be required by the ritual, by the master, or by the junior warden. Your regular and
early attendance will afford the best proof of your zeal and attachment to the lodge.
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Duties of the Senior Steward
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-15 Stewards. The duties of the stewards shall be as follows:
1. They shall perform such duties agreeable to the usage of the craft and pertaining to their offices
as may be required by the ritual, the junior warden, or the master.
2. They shall provide for the comfort of the brethren.
Officers Handbook
The Junior Deacon’s Charge
Brother,
You have been appointed by the master of your lodge to the office of junior deacon for the ensuing
year.
This office carries much responsibility. You are basically, the “keeper of the gate.” It is your
responsibility to assist the tyler, before the lodge is purged, to vouch for visiting brethren. If you cannot,
it is your responsibility to advise the master and/or wardens so that proper examination of the visitor
may be initialized. It is your duty to guard the lodge entrance from within the lodge. No one should enter
or leave the lodge without the master’s permission or order. It is your duty to assist the senior deacon in
purging the lodge according to the rules and regulations in The Code. You are responsible for seeing that all
that enter the lodge are properly clothed.
Your office is of such importance that when you are performing other various duties in the lodge, the
master must appoint another master mason to fill your chair during the performance of those duties. You
are, in essence, “the guard within.” The Grand Lodge education booklet Program for Progress notes that
“You are already a leader.”
In the performance of your duties in previous chairs, you have demonstrated leadership qualities
to varying degrees. Take the opportunity this year to hone and polish those leadership skills. Your
participation and attendance at the lodge social events, projects, and fund raisers are good tools for
sharpening your leadership skills. The lessons they teach and the experience you gain will benefit you
throughout your journey through the chairs and in life itself.
Before being installed as junior deacon, you and all of the officers-elect, made the following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the installing officer read the following charge to
you:
Brother, you have been appointed or elected junior deacon of this lodge. It is your duty to
act as messenger of the senior warden in the active duties of the lodge, to have special caret
o see that the lodge is properly tyled. If you cannot personally vouch for each person in
the lodge room as a master mason at the time the lodge is being purged, you shall proceed
forthwith in the proper manner to satisfy yourself to that effect. The failure to perform this
important duty shall be a serious offense. It is also your duty to announce the name of each
visiting brother, the name, number, and location of his lodge, to be certain that he is duly
vouched for and that he is properly clothed before he is admitted to the lodge. You are to
perform such other duties as the customs of the craft may require, or the master may order.
The square and compasses as the badge of your office, I now entrust to your care. I do not
doubt your vigilance and attention.
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Officers Handbook
Duties of the Junior Deacon
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-14 Junior Deacon. The duties of junior deacon shall be as follows.
1. He shall act as messenger of the senior warden in the active duties of the lodge.
2. He shall have special care that the lodge is secure. [59-2.49].
3. If the junior deacon cannot personally vouch for each person in the lodge room as a master
mason at the time the lodge is being purged, he shall proceed forthwith in the proper manner to
satisfy himself to that effect. Failure to perform this important duty fully and properly shall be a
serious Masonic offense. [50-4; Chapter 51].
4. He shall perform such other duties as the usage and customs of the craft may require or the
master may order.
Officers Handbook
The Senior Deacon’s Charge
Brother,
You have been appointed, by the master of your lodge, as the senior deacon for the ensuing year.
This is a very important office. This year, you need to pay more attention to the elected positions in
the lodge. Learn all you can from them. You will, by the grace of the brethren, be elected junior warden
next year. Your performance in this position will play an important role toward that election.
Your attendance and participation in most, if not all, of the lodge functions is needed. This is where
you will gain the knowledge and experience required performing the duties of the junior warden. If you
do not participate, you will be unable to function properly in your office and the lodge and our charities
will suffer the consequences.
The junior warden will assign more responsibilities and tasks to you this year. These tasks and
responsibilities are not assigned to you just so you will work, but to help inform you as to what is expected
of you next year. Your cooperation will be appreciated and the effort you expend will ultimately help gain
for you some of the knowledge and experience you will need one day as master of the lodge.
Before being installed as an officer in your lodge, you and all of the other officers-elect took the
following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to which
I have been selected.
Upon being installed in the office you now occupy, the installing officer read the following charge to
you:
Brother, you have been appointed or elected senior deacon of this lodge. You are to act
as messenger of the master in the active duties of the lodge, to give fraternal attention to
visiting brethren, to receive and conduct candidates into the different degrees of Masonry.
In the immediate practice of our rites and ceremonies, to you, with such assistance as you
may deem necessary, may be entrusted the examination of visitors. You are to perform such
duties as the customs of the craft may require, or the master may order. The square and
compasses, as badges of your office, I entrust to your care, not doubting your zeal and
attention.
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Officers Handbook
10
Duties of the Senior Deacon
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-13 Senior Deacon. The duties of senior deacon shall be as follows:
1. He shall act as messenger of the master in the active duties of the lodge.
2. He shall give fraternal attention to visiting brethren.
3. He shall receive and conduct candidates in the three degrees of Masonry.
4. He shall perform such other duties as the usage and customs of the craft may require or the
master may order.
11
Officers Handbook
The Junior Warden’s Charge
Brother,
The brethren of your lodge have elected you to the office of junior warden for the ensuing year.
Your brothers have exhibited a high degree of trust, respect, and confidence in you and your
abilities by electing you to this office. You have demonstrated, while serving in the previous chairs, your
commitment, ability, and a strong desire to serve your lodge and Masonry. In doing so, you have earned
that trust, respect, and confidence.
It is important that you understand the duties and responsibilities of the office to which you have been
elected.
By accepting your election to this office, you are demonstrating your trust, respect, and confidence in
your brother masons.
This station is, by far, the most difficult and the most demanding yet, with the duties and
responsibilities it carries. Your commitment and the satisfactory performance of those duties and
responsibilities serves to further prepare you for the next step in attaining your ultimate goal, being
eventually elected to sit in the East.
Before being installed as junior warden, you and all of the officers-elect, made the following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the Installing Officer read the following
charge to you:
Brother, you have been elected junior warden of this lodge and invested with the badge of
your office. The plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in our several stations, to hold
the scales of justice in equal poise, to observe the just medium between intemperance and
pleasure, and to make our passions and prejudices coincide with the line of our duty.
To you is committed the superintendence of the craft during the hours of refreshment. It is
therefore indispensably necessary that you should not only be temperate and discreet in the
indulgence of your inclinations, but carefully observe that none of the craft be suffered to
convert the purposes of refreshment into intemperance and excess.
Your regular and punctual attendance is particularly requested. I have no doubt that you
will faithfully execute the duty which you owe to your present election.
— Look well to the South!
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Officers Handbook
12
Duties of the Junior Warden
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-10 Junior Warden: The duties of the junior warden shall be as follows:
1. He shall superintend the craft during the hours of refreshment.
2. He shall take cognizance of all complaints of any un-Masonic conduct and bring the same before
the lodge, or to prefer charges therefor, provided that his failure to act shall not bar any brother
from bringing a complaint directly before the lodge or preferring charges as provided by law.
3. He shall represent the lodge personally or by regularly appointed proxy in conjunction with the
master and senior warden at all communications of the Grand Lodge. [3-1.3; 3-3; 3-4].
4. He shall succeed to and exercise all the powers of the master in the absence of the two officers
above him. So far as practicable the provisions of Regulation 59-9 shall apply when the junior
warden acts as master.
13
Officers Handbook
The Senior Warden’s Charge
Brother,
Due to your hard work, dedication, and perseverance, the brethren of your lodge have elected you as
senior warden.
You have just completed your busiest year since you started in the line six years ago. It has been a long
and tedious journey. It is now time for you to reflect upon what you have learned during this journey and
begin serious planning of your year as master. It will be here before you know it. Don’t think you can fall
asleep in the “rocking chair” now that your ultimate goal is in sight. Take advantage of this time to share
your past experiences with the junior officers. Work with the master toward the successful completion of
his year and learn from his successes and mistakes. Use this time wisely to prepare yourself in a manner
that will help make your year as master a successful one.
It is important that you understand the duties and responsibilities of the office to which you have been
elected.
The senior warden’s station is the most important leg of your journey. This year you begin putting
your plans for next year into motion. Use the experience of the master and the past masters to assist you.
The past masters are an extremely valuable asset.
By accepting your election to this office, you are demonstrating your trust, respect, and confidence in
your brother masons.
Before being installed as senior warden, you and all of the officers-elect, made the following pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the installing officer read the following charge to
you:
Brother, you have been elected senior warden of this lodge and invested with the ensign of
your office. The level demonstrates that we are descended from the same stock, partake of
the same nature, and share the same hope. Though distinctions among men are necessary
to preserve subordination; yet no eminence of station should make us forget that we are
brethren. He who is placed on the lowest spoke of fortune’s wheel may be entitled to
our regard; because a time will come, and the wisest knows not how soon, when all the
distinctions, but that of goodness, shall cease; and death, the grand leveler of human
greatness, shall reduce us to the same state.
Your regular attendance at our stated communications is necessary. In the absence of the
master you are to govern his lodge; in his presence, you are to assist him in the government
Officers Handbook
14
of it. I firmly rely on your knowledge of Masonry and attachment to the lodge for the
faithful discharge of the duties of this important trust.
— Look well to the West!
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Duties of the Senior Warden
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-9 Senior Warden. The duties of the senior warden shall be as follows:
1. He shall take charge of the craft during the hours of labor in the absence of the master.
2. He shall represent the lodge in conjunction with the master and junior warden at all
communications of the Grand Lodge or to appoint his proxy therefor. [3-1.3; 3-3; 3-4].
3. He shall succeed to and exercise all the powers of the master in the event of his absence. [45-5].
4. The master shall be considered absent, so as to justify a warden or a past master in acting as
master, when he is not present at a communication of the lodge, either stated or emergent, or
when he is absent from the jurisdiction, or is mentally or physically unable to do official acts when
necessity therefor arises. [59-10.4].
5. The member qualified and acting as master shall have the same powers and he is held to the same
accountability as the lawful master of the lodge during the time he shall be lawfully acting as such,
and no longer.
6. A warden shall not call an emergent communication of his lodge while his superior officer is
within territorial jurisdiction thereof and is able to authorize the call, but a warden acting in the
absence of the master has the same power and authority as the master. [45-3; 45-5].
7.
When acting as master, he shall sign official documents senior warden, but adding thereto acting
master. [45-12; 57-8].
15
Officers Handbook
The Master’s Charge
Greetings Worshipful Master,
Congratulations upon being elected as master of your lodge.
Through dedication, hard work, careful planning, sacrifice and determination, you have achieved the
goal you set many years ago when you accepted an appointment to the line of officers. You have achieved
a goal that few masons attain.
Your journey has been long and tedious. You have gained much knowledge and experience over the
years. Now is the time to make use of that knowledge and experience governing your lodge over the next
year.
Govern your lodge wisely. Run your lodge as you see fit. The brethren have placed their trust in you to
lead them for the next year.
Be firm, yet flexible. Be proud, yet humble. Treat your brethren with the same respect they
demonstrated when they elected you as master.
Worshipful Brother, you have been elected to one of the most important and honorable positions you
could ever hold. Remember well the lessons of the degrees and what they teach. Never lose sight of “The
Three Great Lights” and to what they allude. Wear your apron proudly and never forget its meaning,
mostly, remember the only creed a mason is required to profess, “Trust in God.”
Serve well in the East!
Before being installed as master, you and all of the elected and appointed officers made the following
pledge:
I promise on the honor of a master mason that I will, to the best of my ability, conform to
and abide by the ancient landmarks, regulations, and usages of Masonry, the Constitution
and laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina
and the laws of this lodge, and that I will faithfully perform the duties of the office to
which I have been selected.
Upon being installed into the office you now occupy, the Installing Officer read the following charge to
you:
I. You agree to be a good man and true, and strictly to obey the moral law.
II. You agree to be a peaceable subject, and cheerfully to conform to the laws of the country in which you reside.
III. You promise not to be concerned in plots and conspiracies against government, but patiently to submit to the decisions
of the supreme legislature.
IV. You agree to pay a proper respect to the civil magistrates, to work diligently, live creditably, and act honorably by all
men.
V. You agree to hold in veneration the original rules and patrons of the order of Masonry, and their regular successors,
supreme and subordinate, according to their station, and to submit to the awards and resolutions of your brethren,
when convened, in every case consistent with the constitutions of the order.
VI. You agree to avoid private piques and quarrels, and to guard against intemperance and excess.
Officers Handbook
VII.
16
You agree to be cautious in carriage and behavior, courteous to your brethren, and faithful to your Lodge.
VIII. You promise to respect genuine brethren, and to discountenance imposters and all dissenters from the original plan of
Masonry.
IX. You agree to promote the general good of society, to cultivate the social virtues, and to propagate the knowledge of the
art.
X. You promise to pay homage to the grand master and to his officers when duly installed, and strictly to conform
to every edict of the Grand Lodge, or general assembly of masons, that is not subversive of the principles and
groundwork of Masonry.
XI. You admit that it is not in the power of any men, or body of men, to make innovations in the body of Masonry.
XII. You promise a regular attendance at the committees and communications of the Grand Lodge, on receiving proper
notice, and to pay attention to all the duties of Masonry, on convenient occasions.
XIII. You admit that no new lodge shall be formed without permission of the Grand Lodge, and that no countenance be given
to an irregular lodge, or to any person clandestinely initiated therein, being contrary to the ancient charges of the
order.
XIV. You admit that no person can be regularly made a mason or be admitted as a member of any regular Lodge without
previous notice and due inquiry into his character.
XV. You agree that no visitor shall be received into your lodge without due examination and without producing proper vouchers
of his having been initiated into a regular lodge.
These are the regulations of Free and Accepted Masons.
My Brother, do you submit to these charges and promise to support these regulations, as
masters have done in all ages before you?
After your affirmative answer was given the installing officer continued:
Brother, in consequence of your cheerful conformity to the charges and regulations of the
fraternity, you are now to be installed master of this lodge, in full confidence of your care,
skill, and capacity to govern the same.
After being invested with the apron and jewel of your office, the installing officer continued:
Worshipful Master, you will now receive the furniture and various implements used in
your lodge. They are emblematic of our conduct in life, and on this occasion are carefully
enumerated.
The Holy Writings, that Great Light in Masonry, will guide you to all truth; it will
direct your path to the temple of happiness, and point out to you the whole duty of man.
However men may differ in creed, yet all men agree that within the pages of the Holy Bible
are found those principles which lay the foundation upon which to build a righteous life.
Freemasonry would take all men by the hand and, leading them to its altar, would point to
the open Bible and urge each faithfully to direct his steps through life by the light he shall
find therein. If, from our sacred altar, the atheist or irreligious man should ever wrest this
book and thus remove, or even obscure, the Great Light of Freemasonry, that light which
has been for centuries the rule and guide of all masons, then we could no longer claim the
17
Officers Handbook
proud title and rank of master mason. As long as that sacred light shines upon our altar,
as long as it illumines and brightens the pathway of the craftsman by the golden rays of
truth; so long will Freemasonry live and shed its beneficent influence among men. Guard,
then, my brother, this sacred book as you guard your life. Defend it as you would defend the
flag of your country. Live according to its sublime precepts; govern yourself that you may
be able to govern others; learn first that you may be able to teach; for justice, moderation,
and decorum should mark the acts of an upright man.
The square teaches us to regulate our actions by rule and line, and harmonize our conduct
by the principle of morality and virtue.
The compasses teach us to limit our desires in every station; that, rising to eminence by
merit, we may live respected and die regretted.
The rule directs that we should punctually observe our duty, press forward in the path of
virtue, and, neither inclining to the right nor to the left, in all our actions have eternity in
view.
The line teaches the criterion of moral rectitude, to avoid dissimilation in conversation and
action, and to direct our steps to the path which leads to a glorious immortality.
You were then conducted to the East where you were handed your master’s cover and told:
It is fitting that you should be covered when presiding over the lodge.
Worshipful Master, I now place in your hands the gavel, an additional insignia of your
rank and authority. Wield it, my brother, with prudence and discretion – firmly, but never
arbitrarily – to the end that good order and harmony may be preserved.
You were then presented the charter and told:
Worshipful Master, I now present to you the charter of (insert your lodge name here), and
charge you that you must preserve it with unfailing care and deliver it to your successor in
office.
The installing officer then read:
The Book Of Constitutions and the By-Laws of your lodge you are to search at all times.
Cause them to be read in your lodge that none may pretend ignorance of their excellent
precepts.
The installing officer then presented the charge to you:
Worshipful Master, being selected master of this lodge, you cannot be insensible of the
obligations which devolve on you as their head, nor of your responsibility for the faithful
discharge of the important duties annexed to your election.
The honor, reputation, and usefulness of your lodge will materially depend on the skill
and devotion with which you manage its concerns, while the happiness of its members will
be generally promoted in proportion to the zeal and ability with which you propagate the
genuine principles of our institution.
Officers Handbook
18
For a pattern of imitation, consider the great luminary of nature, which, rising in the
east, regularly diffuses the light and lustre to all within its circle. In like manner, it is
your province to spread and communicate light and instruction to the brethren of your
lodge. Forcibly impress upon them the dignity and high importance of Masonry. Seriously
admonish them never to disgrace it. Charge them to practice out of this lodge those duties
which are taught in it. By amiable, discreet, and virtuous conduct, they will convince
mankind of the goodness of the institution, so that, when anyone is said to be a member of
it, the world may know that he is one to whom the burdened heart may pour out its sorrows,
to whom distress may prefer its suit, whose hand is guided by justice, and whose heart
expanded by benevolence. In short, by a diligent observance of the by-laws of your lodge,
the constitutions of Masonry, and above all, the Holy Scriptures, which are given as a rule
and guide to your faith, you will be enabled to acquit yourself with honor and reputation,
and lay up a crown of rejoicing, which shall continue when time shall be no more.
Taken from the North Carolina Masonic Ceremonies
Duties of the Master
As described by
The Code, Constitution and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Reg. 59-2 Master. Some, but not all of the powers of the master of a lodge which are also duties to be
performed by him, or at his direction and under his supervision, are as follows:
1. He may discharge all of the executive functions of his lodge, always subject to the law of the
Grand Lodge.
2. He may expound the law and decide all questions of Masonic law and order, subject to review by
the grand master and the Grand Lodge. [8-1, 8-2].
3. He may issue or cause to be issued all summonses or notices which may be required when the
welfare of Masonry, the interest of the lodge, or the rights of a brother demand.
4. He shall take special care that disobedience of a duly served summons be promptly followed by
discipline unless the offender renders excuse for the offense satisfactory to the lodge. [45-5; 83-2].
5. He may convene his lodge in emergent communication whenever he deems it necessary. [45-3;
45-5].
6. He may close his lodge at his pleasure, but it shall be closed as provided in Regulation 45-17 .
7. He may decide who shall be admitted to the lodge and he may deny admission to a visitor. [50-5;
50-5.7].
8. He shall see that worthy brethren visiting from other lodges have courteous attention and a
welcome to his Lodge.
9. He may deny admission to a brother who is disqualified by law to sit in a lodge or who is under
the influence of intoxicants. [74-5; 90-4].
19
Officers Handbook
10. He may refuse to entertain a motion. [45-23.20].
11. He may declare the business of a lodge and may prohibit or allow debate. [45-23.20].
12. Except as otherwise provided in Regulation 73-3, he may delay until the next stated
communication only, a ballot on a petition for the degrees or an application for affiliation,
advancement, or restoration.
13. He may order a ballot spread outside the regular order of business at a stated communication.
[68-2; 68-14; 73-3; 73-6; 75-8].
14. He may order a vote taken by the customary method, if a ballot is not required by law, unless two
members concur in a demand that it be taken by ballot. [63-3].
15. He may confer a degree or postpone conferring a degree against the wishes of a majority of the
members except upon objection to initiation or advancement as provided by law. [73-3].
16. After having opened his lodge, he may place any capable master mason in the East and permit
him to confer any of the degrees, the master being present. If any regular officer is absent, his
office should be filled pro tempore. [24-1.1; 45-12.2; 71-15].
17. He may complete unfinished material or business, except as may be otherwise provided by law.
[73-3; 73-4].
18. He may set aside an election of officers for a violation of the law against electioneering for office.
[86-2.14; 86-2.15].
19. He may appoint all appointive officers not otherwise provided for and fill vacancies in such offices.
[54-2].
20. He may discharge any or all members of a committee appointed who fail to, or refuse to, act, and
fill any vacancy thus created. [67-9].
21.
He may perform such other acts, by ancient usage proper to his office, as shall not be in
contravention of any provision of The Code or any law of the Grand Lodge.
22.
He shall preserve the charter of the lodge with unfailing care and to deliver it to his successor in
office. [38-3.1; 40-6; 59-6; 41-8; 38-3.4].
23. He may appoint all committees except as otherwise provided. [Chapter 61].
24. He shall open and preside over the lodge when present, and to make all necessary provisions for
the faithful performance of the duty when absent, except that he shall surrender the chair to the
grand master or his representative or the district deputy grand master, on their official visitations.
[45-12; 45-12.1].
25. He may cast the deciding vote in the event of a tie if he has not already voted. [44-7 (Art. 22B);
63-16].
26. He shall give Masonic instruction at every communication of his lodge.
27. He shall guard carefully against any infraction of the by-laws of his lodge, the laws of the Grand
Lodge, or the general regulations, usages, and customs of Masonry, and suffer no departure
therefrom upon the plea of convenience or expediency except in cases of emergency, and then
only when authorized by a dispensation of the grand master. [76-3.4.A].
Officers Handbook20
28. He shall require every member of the lodge present except the tyler, to vote upon all questions of
a business nature coming before the lodge unless excused at his own request by the master. The
tyler, if a member of the lodge, shall vote in all secret ballots by balls and cubes, and he shall not
be excused therefrom. [63-4; 63-11; Chapter 63].
29. He shall permit no appeal from his decision to be made to the lodge. [59-4; 59-5; 59-5.4; 4523.20; 8-3; 8-3.4].
30. He shall make the work and ritual practiced in his lodge conform to the authorized work adopted
by the Grand Lodge and to no other system, and to preserve carefully the Official Standard of the
Work receipted for by him. [24-5; 24-5.3; Chapter 24].
31. He shall have a copy of The Code always available in the lodge room when the lodge is open.
32. He shall require the members of his lodge to obey a mandate of the grand master. Refusal of its
members to submit to such decisions, until reversed by the Grand Lodge, is revolutionary and
shall subject the offenders to discipline for un-Masonic conduct.
33. He shall read and expound to the lodge the proceedings of the Grand Lodge.
34. He shall sign all orders drawn upon the treasurer after approval by the lodge. [59-11.3].
35. He shall take command of the other officers and to claim of them at any time advice and
assistance on any business relative to the craft.
36. He shall see that the proper officers collect and truly keep the moneys of the lodge, see that
the furniture and other valuables are properly cared for, and should the charter be forfeited or
surrendered, to preserve these things subject to the order of the Grand Lodge. [41-9; 41-1.2].
37. He shall see that the law for collection of dues is fully observed. [77-24].
38. He shall see that the secretary promptly pays the lodge funds to the treasurer. The master is
justified in removing a secretary who fails or refuses to do so. [59-12.4].
39. He shall see that the annual returns to the Grand Lodge are made out properly and forwarded by
the secretary by the time required by the Grand Lodge, and that the amount due to the Grand
Lodge is paid promptly. [Chapter 47].
40. He shall convene his lodge in stated communication at the time prescribed in its by-laws. [44-7
(Art. 8)].
41. He shall convene his lodge upon the official visitation of the grand master or his representative,
extend to him the appropriate courtesies and, when called upon, submit for his inspection the bylaws and records of the lodge. [13- 3.3].
42. He shall see that all un-Masonic conduct that comes to his knowledge is dealt with according to
the laws of the Grand Lodge. [41-10.4].
43. He shall preside at the Masonic burial services of deceased master masons. [82-1; 82-2].
44. He shall represent his lodge in conjunction with the wardens at all communications of the Grand
Lodge, or appoint his proxy therefor. [3-1.3; 3- 3; 3-4; Official Form 43].
45.
He shall inspect the ballot box, after requiring it to be inspected by the wardens, declare the
result, and immediately thereafter destroy the ballot.
21
Officers Handbook
46. He shall install his successor in office or cause it to be done. [55-7]
47. He shall declare a petition for the degrees received by the lodge after it has been read in open
lodge, provided, the lodge has jurisdiction over it, and he, or the lodge, has not refused to
entertain it. [65-6].
48. He shall order a petition or application withdrawn and returned if he discovers after it has
been received, that the lodge does not have jurisdiction or that the petitioner or applicant is not
mentally or physically qualified. If he is morally disqualified, the petition or application shall not
be withdrawn but shall go to the ballot. [65-6; 65-7; 66-2; 67-4; 67-6; 75-8; 78-2].
49.
He shall see that the place of the junior deacon is always filled although this officer himself may
be in the lodge hall but elsewhere temporarily performing his duties. [59-14.2].
50. He shall see that the East is always filled when the lodge is open. [45-12; 57- 8].
A Past Master Speaks
By Carl H. Claudy
We are a jealous lot, we past masters!
But our jealousy is not of the master but for the lodge we have loved and served. We want to see her
succeed, go forward, grow bigger, better, finer, more useful to our brethren. Most of us count no personal
sacrifice comparable to the good of the lodge; most of us will go to great lengths to serve again in any
capacity, if by so doing we can help the old lodge another mile forward on what we hope will be always an
honorable path to glory.
Therefore, worshipful sir, use us, we who have had our little hour in the East. We have experience
– make it count for you. We have learned to work – make us work for you. We have understanding of
lodge and membership problems – make it yours. Give us a job to do, a committee membership, a minor
appointment; aye, give us the hard and unwanted jobs, and most of us will jump at the chance. And if you
are reasonably gentle about it, and treat us with even a modicum of fraternal courtesy – such as the young
should always offer the old! – some day we will welcome you as immediate past master and make you one
of the charmed circle without which no lodge can function at its best.
This article was distributed on The Tarheel Mason dated February 8, 2003 by the Masonic Education Committee.
Officers Handbook22
Degree Assignments
and Prop Placement
23
Officers Handbook
Entered Apprentice Degree Team Assignments
Candidate: ____________________________
Date: __________________________
Master:______________________________ Senior Warden:__________________________
Junior Warden:________________________ Senior Deacon:__________________________
Junior Deacon:________________________ Senior Steward:__________________________
Junior Steward:________________________ Tyler:__________________________________
Chaplain:____________________________ Apron Lecture:__________________________
Candidate Prep:_______________________
Lecture:_____________________________
Charge:_____________________________
This form may be copied
Props Placement for Entered Apprentice Degree
Props Placement for Entered Apprentice Degree
JW
SS
Sec.
G2
JS
Chap.
JD
D
F
G1
M
A
H
F
SW
G3
SD
Trea.
C
B
E
A
B
C
D
E
Bible; bookmarked to the Entere d Apprentice Degree Scripture
Sharp Instrument
Working Tools; Twenty-Four Inch Gauge and Common Gavel
Burning Tapers
White Leather Apron
F
G1
G2
G3
H
37
Staff Stands (If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Kneeling Pillow for Prayer
Officers Handbook24
The Questions
Preliminaries To The Admission Of Candidates
Reg. 79-04: Before the candidate may enter the lodge for initiation, he shall plainly and unequivocally give
his oral assent to these three questions:
1. “Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that unbiased by friends and uninfluenced by
mercenary motives, you freely and voluntarily offer yourself a candidate for the mysteries of
Masonry?”
2. “Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that you are prompted to solicit the privileges of
Masonry by a favorable opinion conceived of the institution, a desire for knowledge, and a sincere
wish to be serviceable to your fellow creatures?”
3. “Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, that you will cheerfully conform to all the ancient
established usages and customs of the fraternity?”
4. And he shall answer the following question: “Have you ever petitioned any other lodge and been
rejected by it?”
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
Entered Apprentice Degree Scripture
Admission Of The Candidate
Psalm 133
1. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
2. It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that
went down to the skirts of his garments;
3. As the dew of Hermon and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the
Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
The Apron Lecture
I now present you the lambskin or white leather apron, which is an emblem of innocence, and the badge of a mason,
more ancient than the Golden Fleece or Roman Eagle; more honorable than the Star and Garter, or any other order that can be
conferred upon you at this time, or any future period, by king, prince, potentate, or any other person, except he be a mason, and
which I hope you will wear with equal pleasure to yourself, and honor to the fraternity.
It may be that, in coming years, upon your head shall rest the laurel leaves of victory; on your breast may hang jewels fit
to grace the diadem of an Eastern potentate; nay, more than these, with light added to the coming light, your ambitious feet
may tread round after round the ladder that leads to fame in our mystic circle, and even the purple of our fraternity may rest
25
Officers Handbook
upon your honored shoulders; but never again from mortal hands, never again, until your enfranchised spirit shall have passed
upward and inward through the pearly gates, shall any honor so distinguished, so emblematic of purity and all perfections, be
bestowed upon you as this which I now confer. It is yours to wear throughout an honorable life, and at your death to be placed
upon the coffin which shall contain your earthly remains, and with them laid beneath the silent clods of the valley.
Let its pure and spotless surface be to you an ever-present reminder of a “purity of life and rectitude of conduct,” a neverending argument for nobler deeds, for higher thoughts, for greater achievements. And when at last your weary feet shall have
come to the end of their toilsome journey, and from your nerveless grasp shall drop forever the working tools of life, may the
record of your life and actions be as pure and spotless as the fair emblem which I place within your hands tonight. And when
your trembling soul shall stand naked and alone before the Great White Throne, may it be your portion to hear from Him who
sitteth as the Judge Supreme the welcome words- “Well done, good and faithful servant; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
The Working Tools
Entered Apprentice
The working tools of an Entered Apprentice are the twenty-four-inch gauge and the common gavel.
The twenty-four-inch Gauge is an instrument made use of by operative masons to measure and lay out
their work, but we, as Free and Accepted Masons, are taught to make use of it for the more noble and
glorious purpose of dividing our time. It being divided into twenty-four equal parts, is emblematic of the
twenty-four hours of the day, which we are taught to divide into three equal parts; whereby are found
eight hours for the service of God, and a distressed worthy brother; eight for our usual avocations; and
eight for refreshment and sleep.
The common gavel is an instrument made use of by operative masons to break off the corners of rough
stones, the better to fit them for the builder’s use; but we, as Free and Accepted Masons, are taught to
make use of it for the more noble and glorious purpose of divesting our hearts and consciences of all the
vices and superfluities of life, thereby fitting our minds as living stones for that spiritual building, “that
house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
Officers Handbook26
Fellow Craft Degree Team Assignments
Candidate: ____________________________
Date: __________________________
Master:______________________________ Senior Warden:__________________________
Junior Warden:________________________ Senior Deacon:__________________________
Junior Deacon:________________________ Senior Steward:__________________________
Junior Steward:________________________ Tyler:__________________________________
Chaplain:____________________________ Apron Lecture:__________________________
Candidate Prep:_______________________
Lecture:_____________________________
Charge:_____________________________
This form may be copied
Props Placement
for Fellow Craft Degree
Props Placement for Fellowcraft Degree
JW
Sec.
SS
E3
JS
JD
Chap.
D
E1
A
B
C
M
SW
A
E2
D
D
SD
F
E
Trea.
C
B
First Section
A
B
C
D
E1
E2
E3
Second Section
Bible; bookmarked to the Fe llowcraft Degree Scripture
Square
Working Tools; Plumb, Level and Square
Staff Stands ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
A
B
C
D
E
F
43
Corn
Wine
Oil
Three, Five and Seven Steps
Column
Column
27
Officers Handbook
Fellow Craft Degree Scripture
Amos 7: 7-8
7. Thus he shewed me: and, behold, the Lord stood upon a wall made by a plumb-line, with a
plumb-line in his hand.
8. And the Lord said unto me, “Amos, what seest thou?” And I said, “a plumb-line.” Then said the
Lord, “Behold, I will set a plumb-line in the midst of my people Israel: I will not again pass by
them any more.”
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
The Working Tools
Fellow Craft
The working tools of and Fellow Craft are the plumb, the square, and the level. The plumb is an
instrument made use of by operative masons to raise perpendiculars, the square to square their work, and
the level to lay horizontals; but we as Free and Accepted Masons are taught to make use of them for more
noble and glorious purposes; the plumb admonishes us to walk uprightly in our several stations before
God and man, squaring our actions by the square of virtue, and remembering that we are traveling upon
the level of time to that undiscovered country, from whose bourne no traveler returns.
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
Officers Handbook28
Master Mason Degree Team Assignments
First Section
Candidate: ____________________________
Date: __________________________
Master:______________________________
Junior Warden:________________________
Junior Deacon:________________________
Junior Steward:________________________
Chaplain:____________________________
Candidate Prep:_______________________
Lecture:_____________________________
Senior Warden:__________________________
Senior Deacon:__________________________
Senior Steward:__________________________
Tyler:__________________________________
Working Tools: __________________________
Second Section
King Soloman:
___________________
Secretary:
_____________________
Senior Grand Warden: __________________ Canvas Committee:
Senior Grand Deacon: ___________________
___________________
1st Ruffian: ___________________
___________________
2nd Ruffian: ___________________
___________________
3rd Ruffian: ___________________
__________________
1st Searcher: ___________________
___________________
2nd Searcher: ___________________
___________________
3rd Searcher: ___________________
___________________
Fellow Craft: ___________________ Graveside Prayer: ___________________
(if needed)
Lecture: ___________________
Charge: ___________________
This form may be copied
29
Officers Handbook
Props Placement
forforMaster
Degree
Props Placement
Master MasonMason
Degree
JW
B
C
E
SS
Sec.
E3
JS
Chap.
JD
D
A
M
SW
E1
E2
D
H
A
SD
I
in prep room
Trea.
C
F
G
D
First Section
A
B
C
D
E1
E2
E3
Bible; bookmarked to th e MM Degree Scripture
Compasses
Working Tools; Trowel
Staff Stands (If Used)
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
Wooden Block for Rapping Staff on Floor ( If Used )
B
J
Second Section
A
B
C
D
E
Hoodwink
Junior Warden's Jewel
24" Gauge
Square
Setting Maul
F
G
H
I
J
Canvas
Litter (If Used)
Sprig of Acacia
Chains for Ruffians (in Preparation Room)
White Gloves for the 12 Fellowcraft
47
Master Mason Degree Scripture
Ecclesiastes 12: 1-7
1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years
draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;
2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after
the rain:
3 In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves,
and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened,
4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise
up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of music shall be brought low;
5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond
tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth
to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets.
6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the
fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.
Officers Handbook
30
7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
The Working Tools
Master Mason
The working tools of and master mason are all the implements of Masonry indiscriminately, but more
especially the trowel.
The trowel is an instrument made use of by operative masons to spread the cement which unites a
building into one common bond; but we, as Free and Accepted Masons are taught to make use of it for
the more noble and glorious purpose of spreading the cement of brotherly love and affection; that cement
which unites us into one sacred band, or society of friends and brothers, among whom no contention
should ever exist, but that noble contention, or rather emulation, of who can best work and best agree.
Taken from the Bahnson Manual
31
Officers Handbook
Telephone Directory
Telephone List
Master Senior Warden
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Junior Warden Treasurer
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Secretary
Senior Deacon
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Officers Handbook
32
Junior Deacon
Senior Steward
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Junior Steward
Tyler
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Chaplain
DDGM
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
33
Officers Handbook
DDGL
Grand Lodge of North Carolina
Name:___________________________________ Name: T. Walt Clapp, Grand Secretary__
Address: _________________________________ Address: 2921 Glenwood Avenue
_____________________________________ Raleigh, NC 27628___________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone: (919) 787-2021______________
Work: ___________________________________ Fax:
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Web:
Masonic Home for Children at Oxford
(919) 787-2279______________
www.grandlodge-nc.org_ ______
Masonic and Eastern Star Home
Name: Doug McConnell, Administrator_ _______ Name: John Rose__________________
Address: 600 College Street__________________ Address: 700 South Holden Road
Oxford, NC 27565__________________ Greensboro, NC 27407_______
Phone: 1-888-505-4357____________________ Phone:
Phone: (919) 693-5111_ ____________________ Work Fax: (336) 547-2999_ ____________
Fax:
(919) 693-2479______________________ Pager:_____________________________
Web:
www.mhc-oxford.org_________________ Cell/Web: www.meshhome.org_________
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ (336) 299-0031_ ____________
______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Officers Handbook
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Charity Committee
Finance & Budget Committee
Chairman:________________________________ Chairman:_________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Reference Committee
MHCO Committee
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
MESH Committee
Education Committee
Name:___________________________________ Name:_ ___________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
35
Officers Handbook
DeMolay Committee
Chairman:________________________________ Chairman:_ ________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Chairman:________________________________ Chairman:_ ________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Chairman:________________________________ Chairman:_ ________________________
Address: _________________________________ Address:_ __________________________
_____________________________________ ______________________________
Phone:___________________________________ Phone:____________________________
Work: ___________________________________ Work:_ ____________________________
Pager:_ __________________________________ Pager:_____________________________
Cell: _ ___________________________________ Cell:_ _____________________________
Officers Handbook
36
Planning Calendar
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
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Officers Handbook
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Officers Handbook
JULY
AUGUST
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Officers Handbook
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Officers Handbook42
Grand Lodge
Committee On Masonic Education
2005
Richard Smith, Chairman...............................................................................................Pilot Lodge No. 493
Jon Canupp........................................................................................................... Clemmons Lodge No. 755
Raymond B. Casey Jr...................................................................................................Wayne Lodge No. 112
Charles E. Cathey......................................................................................................Sonoma Lodge No. 472
Brian Edwards............................................................................................................ Manteo Lodge No. 521
A. Ed Lawing.................................................................................................Catawba Valley Lodge No. 217
Kirby Matthews..........................................................................................................Denton Lodge No. 404
John O. Newman............................................................................................... East LaPorte Lodge No. 358
Rick Pridgen................................................................................................................Wayne Lodge No. 112
Dudley H. Sheppard (Honorary)............................................................................ Gate City Lodge No. 694
Masonic Links
http://www.grandlodge-nc.org
http://www.ncmason.org
http://www.ncfreemason.com
http://orient-nc.org/
http://scottishrite-ws.org/
If you want to subscribe to Tarheel list that Brother Al Hardy administers he has asked that you send him an
e-mail to Hardyal@bellsouth.net. He has security set so that you can’t subscribe any other way.
He just needs your full name, lodge name, and number.
http://lists.grandlodge-nc.org/mailman/listinfo/tarheel-masons